Scholarships for master’s degrees reflect S’wak govt commitment to nurturing talent, says SUPP man

MIRI (Aug 10): The move to provide scholarships to students pursuing master’s degree programmes underscores Sarawak government’s commitment to nurturing talents and also the importance of education.

In stating this, Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Central Youth publicity and information secretary Kelvin Hii hailed the announcement by the Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, as ‘good news for the people of Sarawak’, further highlighting that the state government’s focus on education would truly help Sarawak achieve prosperity.

“It is the government’s hope that all citizens would work together towards prosperity, as it is better ‘to teach one to fish rather than giving them fish’, towards elevating the cultural and intellectual standards of Sarawakians.

“This way, no matter where they go, they will be well-equipped with knowledge, which will ultimately lead to wealth.

“It’s not just about financial wealth, but also enriching the people’s knowledge.

“Sarawak is now on the right track for development, unlike in the past when some political parties simply urged the government to hand out money to the people.

“However, one must realise that while money can be distributed temporarily, it cannot be a permanent solution.

“Financial aid policies cannot truly make people wealthy; instead, they may lead to dependency. Real wealth comes from knowledge, which can transform individuals and families,” he said in a statement.

Adding on, Hii believed that as long as Sarawak could continue providing a solid educational direction, the people of Sarawak would not only advance in academic knowledge, but also in culture and civilisation.

He said over time, Sarawakians would become less dependent on government’s aid, and would be able to contribute to its development through their own efforts.

“This will also help reduce crime rates in society, fostering more tolerance among people and leading to civilisational progress.

“When I visited China, I asked the locals if the government was not worried about vandalism or theft after having built the parks. They replied: ‘Many people in China no longer lack material things, and the education received from a young age has taught them what is right and wrong’.

“This conversation makes it clear that education can transform a place and its civilisation.”

Hii said under the leadership of the state’s ruling coalition Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and Abang Johari, Sarawak had placed great emphasis on education.

“Starting in 2026, Sarawakians will benefit from free education – demonstrating the Sarawak government’s commitment to education.

“It is particularly important to note that higher education is not inherently free, but the Sarawak government has chosen to cover the tuition fees to help more Sarawakians attend university.”

Hii added that while certain political parties had played up various issues related to schools and education, the GPS-led state government had proactively been introducing more progressive policies meant for all Sarawakians.